FORCES IN CHINA.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 60, Issue 29, 14 November 1939, Page 4

FORCES IN CHINA.

BRITAIN REDUCING STRENGTH. REQUIREMENTS OF THE WAR. (Received This Day, 9.45 a.m.) LONDON, November 13. The War Office announces that Britain which maintains in North China, in accordance with the international protocol of 1901, certain military forces, has decided for reasons of military convenience that have arisen from the conflict in Europe, to maintain there only effectives necessary to protect property and maintain order. This decision has been notified to the various governments who equally maintain garrisons in North China under the protocol of ISol.—British Official Wireless. OPINION IN WASHINGTON. NO CHANGE IN POLICY. NEW YORK, November 13. The Washington correspondent of the “New York Times’’ says that official circles interpret the reduction of the British forces in North China as having been motivated by European conditions rather than current developments in the Far East.

They recall that the United States acted similarly 18 months ago. Britain’s action will not affect the present attitude and policies of the United States in North China. The Tokio correspondent of the United Press of America says that the Japanese are satisfied that the British announcement may he regarded as a move toward the eventual relinquishment of British interests in North China. It is estimated that only 100 to 150 troops remain to serve as Embassy and consular guards.